LaLa Anthony's Family Play Time

The TV personality/author/wife of New York Knicks superstar Carmelo Anthony shares with Healthy Hollywood her favorite family activity, revealing, “As a family we love to go for walks in Central Park and of course Kiyan loves to play basketball like his dad.”

LaLa wants other parents to know the importance of slowing down and taking a moment to do things together as family. It’s healthy both physically and emotionally. LaLa, along with other celebrity moms like actress Angie Harmon and softball star Jennie Finch promoted the importance family time this past Saturday as part of the Active Family Project’s National Family Playdate.

According to studies, moms say they have five family playdates a month, but they would really like to have twice as many.

“Today’s families are busier than ever and running in a million different directions. Making a point to ‘schedule’ family playdates brings us back together and ensures that family time is a top priority,” reveals Amy McCready, founder of the online site Positive Parenting Solutions to Healthy Hollywood.

Amy adds, “Let’s face it – we value the appointments in our calendar, whether it’s doctor’s appointment, staff meeting, or book club. Family play time should hold the same level of importance.”

Plus, family play time is a win-win for both parents and kids.

“Family playtime gives kids a big dose of positive attention. Filling their ‘attention buckets’ proactively in this way will actually make them more cooperative at other times of the day.

When the child’s core emotional requirements for connection and attention are met, he doesn’t feel the need to ‘fight us’ to get negative attention and is more cooperative when asked to do things throughout the day,” adds Amy.

Here are Amy’s four tips for parents making family playdates a positive experience:

Playtime should be whatever activities your kids enjoy. Do what your kids love to do.

It’s a good idea to give kids ownership of family playtime. Let them take turns planning the family playdates.

When weather permits, opt for outdoor play. Kids spend so many hours indoors – find opportunities to get out and enjoy nature when possible.

Remember that a little play every day goes a long way toward building a stronger family. Make play part of your daily to-do list.

-- Terri MacLeod

Copyright 2015 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.